Top 5 Tips for Diving off a Yacht
Yachts provide an excellent starting point for a variety of snorkelling and scuba diving experiences. This is especially true about yachting in Dubai, with so many cool things to see and explore. Venturing under the surface of the water with a mask to witness the seascape and fauna below might seem like you’ve been transported to a whole other planet. However, as with sailing, a few criteria must be followed to ensure the safety of you and your crew as you rent a yacht and go for snorkelling or scuba diving.
Tip 1: Get Adequate Training
Beginners may need to practice breathing through a snorkel and cleaning the tube when they surface from a dive. Before going snorkelling from a boat, have an experienced snorkeler teach you the right methods in a swimming pool. Practising in a pool may also help you gain confidence in your snorkelling skills before venturing out into the ocean.
Tip 2: Make Sure Your Equipment Fits
Both scuba diving and snorkelling require a mask and fins. While scuba divers often purchase their equipment, snorkelers may borrow a mask and fins from a buddy or a yacht rental firm. Choose a mask that fits tightly enough to your face to keep water out but does not create red stains on your forehead or around your eyes.
Tip 3: Do Not Forget About a Dive Flag
Many jurisdictions require a yacht to fly a dive or “diver-down” flag while snorkelers or scuba divers are present in the water. Regardless of your location, flashing a diving flag is a critical safety measure. Scuba divers are invisible to yachts that pass by while underwater, and even snorkelers on the surface might be difficult to notice.
Tip 4: Wear an Inflated Vest
A buoyancy compensator device (BCD) is an important element of scuba diving equipment. It is also advised that snorkelers wear an inflatable snorkelling vest, which allows them to relax, save energy, and manage their buoyancy. There are some types available, including “horse collar” vests that fit over the head and snorkel jackets that give an additional layer of insulation.
Tip 5: Enter the Water Safely
Many yachts include swim platforms that make it simpler for swimmers and divers to get in and out of the water. A diving door is now integrated into one of the gunwales on an increasing number of centre consoles. Before you leap in and start to play yachting-sailing games, ensure the boat’s swim ladder is unfolded or connected. The gigantic stride entrance is the most convenient and pleasant technique to enter the water from a boat while wearing diving gear, and it is also suitable for snorkelers. Here are the steps to follow:
- Wear your dive mask and swim fins. Additionally, if you’re scuba diving, your regulator, BCD, and tank while still on the yacht.
- Partially boost your snorkel vest or BCD to ensure you are buoyant once in the water.
- Use your right hand’s fingers to hold the mask to your face. Scuba divers should use their right hand to maintain the regulator firmly in their mouth. If you use a weight belt, use your left hand to keep it in place.
- Check the water underneath you to ensure that no other divers or swimmers are in the path.
- Take a huge stride forward with one foot, then push off with the other.
- Signal to your companion and others on the boat that you are OK.
Exploring a reef while scuba diving or snorkelling is one of the most breathtaking experiences you can have in the sea. Coral reef ecosystems are incredibly sensitive, and even the smallest contact may cause significant harm. Make sure to always look after and protect the coral reef. Don’t touch it or kick it too closely. They are delicate and full of marine life!
Enjoy Diving Safely
Your yacht may take you on a variety of excursions, and snorkelling and scuba diving are two of the most fascinating experiences to explore in the UAE. Alternatively, you can consider fishing charters in Dubai as an option if you have the temperament of a hunter. After all, there are many unique fish in the United Arab Emirates. No matter what option you decide to go for, receiving adequate training and implementing a few common-sense measures is a must! Consider these when planning your next luxury yacht vacation.
